Swimming During Pregnancy is Great!

Last Updated: Sep. 01, 2016

There is no doubt about it, keeping fit during pregnancy helps reduce your risk of pregnancy related conditions and certainly helps prepare you for the delivery of your baby.Swimming is a fantastic option for women who are looking for a gentle form of exercise.

We have listed 6 reasons why we believe swimming is the perfect form of exercise for pregnant women.

1. Relaxation

Pregnancy is not only physically demanding on your body but it can also bring about emotional challenges too. Swimming is a great form of exercise that balances cardiovascular fitness, endurance and muscle strength and as such is a great stress release activity.

Throughout pregnancy and generally in life it’s important to have a disciplined workout routine. Exercise also helps our body release endorphins which can help to reduce our perception of pain and trigger a positive feeling — which reduces stress and keeps us happy.

2. Gentle on the body

With a little one on the way, the weight of the womb makes pregnant bodies heavier and puts strain on the joints. Due to natural buoyancy in water, the water acts as a support and your body feels light and weightless.

Swimming is low impact and is gentle on your joints. It is particularly beneficial for women who struggle with conditions such as swollen ankles and back pain as swimming does not put any pressure on these conditions and helps to strengthen the muscles surrounding the joints.

3. Tone the body

Swimming is a fantastic all over body workout and engages the larger muscle groups like your arms and legs and increases muscle tones. Women tend to put on extra weight during their pregnancy, this is nature’s way of preparing their body for breastfeeding. Exercise can help to keep weight gains in check.

4. Cardiovascular exercise

Maintaining an increased heart rate for a short period of time helps maintain a healthy and happy heart. You will find simple everyday activities like walking become easier as you consistently swim. This type of exercise also helps our bodies to sleep better. Cardiovascular exercise also helps increase lung capacity which allows us to take in more oxygen and helps breathing.

5. Reduce High Blood pressure

A combination of healthy eating and exercise during pregnancy will help to reduce your risk of high blood pressure.

Getting a great swimsuit

At Cake Maternity we definitely know what it takes to make a great pregnancy swimsuit! While you’re browsing for a good outfit to wear during your exercise, consider the following aspects:

Foam cups for added support due to an increase in bust size during pregnancy

Wide supportive straps that will not slip off your shoulders

Racer back or cross over straps for added support and comfort

Built in shelf to help support and keep your bust in position

Chlorine resistant fabric

Ruched side panels that allow room for a growing belly

Modest cut that will keep your body contained and comfortable

A one-piece suit as it helps to support a growing belly

If swimming is new to you we recommend you consult your doctor or mid wife for advise on how swimming could benefit you.